Todd Gray is Exeter’s most prominent historian, and the “go to” person when there are events of a historical nature in the region. Over 50 members attended the talk.
On October 28th 2016, a huge fire broke out which resulted in 20 fire engines attending and the total destruction of the hotel.
Todd described the course of events and his own interaction with the authorities and the media; he gave over 60 interviews in a week. There was a huge risk to nearby ancient timber framed buildings.
The Royal Clarence was the first to be given the title “Hotel”, previously Inn’s were the norm. It was the place to stay.
As a result of the fire Todd was able to examine many adjacent properties, and has now published a book “Saint Martin’s Island” recording details of the ancient centre of Exeter.
Author: Dennis Sheen